How important is a generator while in the Bahamas from December to May?

Within the past year, I have added a 230 watt solar panel,a Morning Star MPPT controller with Remote monitor and found minimal need for the 6 kw FP genset while cruising the Keys for three months. Other than Air Conditioning, the 630ah battery system has proved very adequate for our refrigerator, lighting and entertainment DC power needs.

I still have room for a second 230 watt panel that will provide adequate excess capacity to allow me to sell power to other boaters!!! ...And I certainly prefer the silence of the panel charging system to the deafening drone of a 3600 rpm diesel engine. But, since my boating experience is still minimal I must ask: ...is an a/c generator a valuable piece of equipment even if solar capability exceeds daily usage?

Our next expedition will be a 2012 cruise through the Bahamas. I would think solar-deficient overcast days will be off set by motoring/sailing days. Will I find the genset a valuable friend or a big chunk of budget-hogging steel that occupies precious storage space?

Looking for the voice of experience....

Thanks,

Bill
s/v Charbonneau IP40-132

Bill,

If you are staying in the Bahamas there should be a great deal of sunlight for the solar panels. Once you get past the Turks and Caicos then you should switch to a wind generator and include an onboard generator because there are more overcast days and the solar panels are not as effective.

I believe that you can live without the generator frustrations for now!